Romans 7:15
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Romans 7:15
15 For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I.
Chapter Context
Romans 7 is a theological epistle chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of grace, worship, love. Written during Paul's third missionary journey (c. 57 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Christians in Rome navigated tensions between Jewish and Gentile believers under imperial watch.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-25: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Romans and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Romans 7:15
15 For that which I do I allow not: for what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I.
Analysis
For that which I do I allow not—Ou ginōskō (οὐ γινώσκω, "I do not know/understand/approve") expresses moral confusion and self-frustration. The regenerate will desires God's law but experiences contradiction between intent and performance. For what I would, that do I not; but what I hate, that do I.—Thelō (θέλω, "I will/desire") versus misō (μισῶ, "I hate") shows internal civil war.
This describes the regenerate experience: genuine desire for holiness coupled with failure to achieve it. The unregenerate don't "hate" what they practice (Romans 1:32); they approve sin. Hating one's sin while struggling against it characterizes Christian experience, not unconverted life. This isn't excuse-making but honest acknowledgment that sanctification involves real battle against remaining corruption, not instantaneous perfection. Paul anticipates chapter 8's solution: Spirit-empowered victory.
Historical Context
Paul's vulnerable self-disclosure would encourage struggling believers in Rome. Perfectionistic expectations produce either pride (false claims of sinlessness) or despair (giving up). Paul charts a middle path: genuine progress in sanctification accompanied by ongoing conflict with indwelling sin until glorification.
Reflection
- How does Paul's description of internal conflict validate your experience of desiring holiness while falling short?
- What's the difference between the 'hatred of sin' Paul describes and the worldly regret of getting caught or facing consequences?
- How might perfectionist expectations (instant victory) be undermining your perseverance in sanctification's real war?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Romans 12:9, 14:22, Psalms 19:12, Ecclesiastes 7:20, Nahum 1:7, Galatians 5:17